Introduction
When it comes to shipping your car, one of the first decisions you’ll face is choosing between open carrier transport and enclosed carrier transport. Both options are safe and widely used, but they come with different benefits, price points, and levels of protection. At Auto Movers Global, we help customers make the right choice every day. Here’s a detailed breakdown to guide you.
1. What Is Open Carrier Transport?
Open carrier transport is the most common and cost-effective method of auto shipping. Your car is loaded onto an open trailer (usually holding 7–10 vehicles) and secured for transport.
Pros:
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Lower cost (typically 30–40% cheaper than enclosed)
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Widely available, faster scheduling
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Safe and reliable for most standard vehicles
Cons:
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Exposed to weather conditions, dirt, and road debris
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Less privacy — vehicles are visible during transport
2. What Is Enclosed Carrier Transport?
Enclosed transport uses a fully covered trailer to ship vehicles. It’s often chosen for high-value, classic, or exotic cars that need extra protection.
Pros:
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Maximum protection from weather, dirt, and road debris
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Added security — cars are hidden from public view
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Drivers are often specialists in handling luxury and collectible vehicles
Cons:
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Higher cost (about 30–60% more than open carriers)
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Fewer carriers available, which may mean longer wait times
3. Cost Comparison
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Open Carrier Transport: $600 – $1,200 for most domestic shipments
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Enclosed Carrier Transport: $1,200 – $2,500+ depending on distance and vehicle type
💡 Tip: For everyday cars, open transport is usually the best balance of cost and safety. For high-value vehicles, enclosed transport is worth the investment.
4. Which Option Should You Choose?
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Choose Open Carrier Transport if:
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You’re moving a standard daily driver
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You want the most affordable option
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You need faster scheduling
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Choose Enclosed Carrier Transport if:
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You own a luxury, exotic, or vintage car
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You want maximum protection
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Weather, dirt, or exposure are concerns
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5. How Auto Movers Global Can Help
At Auto Movers Global, we provide both open and enclosed transport options, backed by licensed and insured carriers. Our team will assess your vehicle, budget, and schedule to recommend the best option for your needs.
Conclusion
Both open and enclosed auto transport are safe, professional ways to ship your car — the choice depends on your priorities. If cost is your main factor, open transport is the way to go. If protection and peace of mind matter most, enclosed transport is worth the extra investment.